Tales From The Barrelhouse: A James Yorkston Baker's Dozen | Page 2 of 14 | The Quietus

Baker's Dozen

Artists discuss the 13 records that shaped their lives

1. LightninHopkins

Lightnin’ Hopkins, Skip James, Mississippis John Hurt and Fred McDowell – a whole load of the old blues fellows sneaked on to the Barrelhouse turntables. Hopkins is a long-time favourite of mine. He doesn’t really seem to care – not about my patronage, I mean, more about his music – but I’m sure he did. He always seems so slack and lackadaisical, but that brings its own magic that you’ll never find on the over-rehearsed and over-produced. I love the sound of this album, the woolly double bass and resigned trombone, all recorded live over one afternoon, probably unrehearsed, certainly under-rehearsed if one is seeking "perfection". Still an all-time favourite on the JY-Pod and it sounds perfect to me.

PreviousNext Selection

Previously Read

Don’t Miss The Quietus Digest

Start each weekend with our free email newsletter.

Help tQ Survive & Thrive

Without our subscribers, all this would simply fall into the cultural abyss. Please take a moment to explore our membership tiers and rewards + don’t miss our free 30-day trial offer for new subs.

Try For Free